Brain Health
60+ Buchanan YMCA & Virtual
The Brain Health Program was developed as a collaborative effort among Posit Science (creator of BrainHQ), the YMCA of Greater San Francisco, and experts in brain health at UCSF, with an objective to slow down or prevent cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia, through tailored lifestyle interventions and cognitive training. The effectiveness of the program was validated through a clinical trial funded by the NIH. Facilitated by a trained lifestyle coach, this 12-week lifestyle change program uses a curriculum to focus on various topics to reduce and identify risk factors for the onset of dementia.
interest list
Join our interest list to receive information on upcoming sessions.
Many aging adults are concerned about cognitive decline or memory loss. The Brain Health Program is designed for adults 60+ looking to maintain and improve cognitive function. This community-based prevention program includes:
- 12 weekly scheduled sessions, community-driven sessions for lasting change.
- A 3-month YMCA membership, opening doors to fitness and community (for non-members).
- 3-months access to BrainHQ, the premier cognitive training tool, for enhanced cognitive ability.
current sessions
Virtual Cohort via Zoom
February 12–May 7 (No Class March 12)
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
February 27–May 22 (No Class March 13)
Fridays, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Buchanan YMCA (In-Person)
March 25–June 10
Wednesdays 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Cost
Member: $149
Includes: 3 month access to BrainHQ, 12 program sessions, participant workbook
Non-Member: $385
Includes: 3 months of membership to YGSF, 3 month access to BrainHQ, 12 program sessions, participant workbook
PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY
Interested participants are provided questionnaires to answer and complete assessments to determine eligibility.
We recommend that eligible participants attend all scheduled weekly one-hour group-based meetings over the 12-week program. Throughout the program, participants have access to BrainHQ software and YMCA facilities.
Each session will be held at a YMCA of Greater San Francisco location and/or remotely via Zoom.
- Need to be at least 60 years of age
- Meet the criteria for one or more Alzheimer’s disease or dementia risk factors such as:
- Social isolation
- Family history of Alzheimer’s dementia (1st degree relative)
- Genetic marker (APOE4++)
- Subjective or objective cognitive decline
- Poorly controlled hypertension or diabetes Physical inactivity of <150 min/week
- Able to travel to/from the YMCA location, if enrolled for in-person session
- Have access to an internet accessible device (e.g., laptop, desktop computer, tablet, or smartphone)
About the Program
Reduce the Risk of Dementia
Mitigate risk factors associated with cognitive decline and dementia.
Improve Overall Well-Being
Experience enhanced cognitive function, increased energy levels, better sleep and mood.
Receive Expert Guidance
Trained lifestyle coaches support and guide you throughout the program.
Join a Supportive Community
Connect with like-minded individuals who commit to improving their brain health.
Train Your Brain
Engage in scientifically-designed brain exercises with BrainHQ software to sharpen memory, attention, and processing speed.
Connect Socially
Participate in group sessions and activities with a supportive community.
Physical Activity
Access YMCA facilities and receive guidance on incorporating exercise into your routine.
Healthy Eating
Learn about brain-healthy foods and receive practical tips for incorporating them into your food choices.
Optimize Sleep
Discover strategies to improve sleep quality and establish healthy sleep habits.
Manage Stress Effectively
Learn why stress management is important and access tools to manage stress appropriately.
Use BrainHQ Software
Utilize this cutting-edge platform with personalized brain training exercises.
Enjoy YMCA Membership
Access all YMCA wellness, including group exercise classes, swimming pools, and more.
The camaraderie of being with a group of people who had … the same goal as I had, it motivated me.
My family has had a lot of dementia. The toll of dementia physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially … it’s devastating. [They] give you guidelines on how much meat, poultry, and fish to eat a week, and I definitely [have] been eating more greens.
What piqued my interest in [Brain Health] in the first place is because both of my parents have … suffered from dementia … so I just kind of thought, well, you know, maybe this could give me some ideas, you know, ways to try to avoid [dementia]. [The] Brain HQ was interesting because I … really … enjoyed that… you know, challenging yourself.
What drew me to the Brain HQ program? I think getting older [and] noticing … increased forgetfulness. You know, I never used to have to wonder where my car was parked …those kinds of things just created a lot of anxiety.
I [spoke with] a friend at the Y who had taken one of your … previous classes, and she thought it was a good investment. She learned a lot.
… It’s definitely a plus to be able to be around people [who] have the same issues or … are in the same stage of life… but it’s also so meaningful to have other people talk with you about those issues.
[The Brain HQ Program gave me] the confidence to kind of say, well, I can do this. It’s going to be okay.